BRUSSELS. 273 



vable rapidity of Buonaparte's movements enabled him al- 

 most to surprise the Duke of Wellington. 



We afterwards pursued a charming walk along the ram- 

 parts, commanding a rich and extensive view, of which the 

 Forest of Soigne formed a prominent and interesting fea- 

 ture. At our feet grew the annual species of thyme (Acy- 

 nos vulgaris), a rare plant in Scotland. 



Having learned that TEglise des Augustins had been 

 opened by a respectable English clergyman, for the accom- 

 modation of the many British subjects now resident in 

 Brussels, we attended the evening service. The congrega- 

 tion was far from being numerous, and appeared to be com- 

 posed chiefly of domestics ; but we understand that the mor- 

 ning service is much better attended. As we walked home- 

 wards, we perceived that the theatre was open ; and, notwith- 

 standing the oppressive heat of the weather, we were told 

 that it overflowed with company. This, we believe, was chief- 

 ly to be ascribed to the circumstance of the King being pre- 

 sent ; for although his Majesty, soon after assuming the 

 sovereignty, issued a proclamation enjoining the strict ob- 

 servance of the Sabbath in his new dominions, such amuse- 

 ments, it appears, are deemed not incompatible, provided 

 the usual canonical hours be respected. — At 10 p. m. the 

 thermometer still indicated 71°. 



Vegetable and Fruit Market. 

 Sept. 8. — In the morning we visited the green-market. 

 The supply was good, but not extensive ; this not being a 

 regular market-day. Cauliflower and cabbages, both red and 

 white, were predominant articles. Celery was strong, but 

 quite green, being evidently intended only for soups. Even 

 at this early season, Brussels sprouts were excellent : only 

 very small compact crowns are brought to market, and they 



